Umo Eno reads riot act to commissioners, advisers for leaving him at events

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has issued a stern warning to his commissioners and special advisers, threatening immediate dismissal for any official who abandons him during public engagements.

The governor expressed his displeasure on Friday in Uyo, after some cabinet members reportedly failed to accompany him to an official event.

“Starting today, I want everyone to hear this clearly — any commissioner who fails to accompany me or disappears during an engagement will be dismissed for insubordination,” Eno warned.

He emphasized that loyalty, presence, and adherence to protocol are non-negotiable responsibilities for his appointees, whom he referred to as his “first eleven.”

“I do not announce where I’ll go. It is the duty of my commissioners to stay with me, take me back to the office or to the lodge,” he said. “If I make an unscheduled stop, the relevant commissioner must be available to respond.”

The governor expressed concern over a growing trend where appointees vanish after official functions. “This is a full-time job. If any commissioner is busy with personal matters, they’re not ready for this role,” he said.

Recalling his time as a commissioner, Eno said he never left his governor unattended and expects the same level of dedication. “My simplicity should not be mistaken for weakness. I’m an elected governor with the overwhelming mandate of Akwa Ibom people,” he stated.

He concluded with a clear warning: “If I look for any commissioner and they’re absent, that commissioner will lose their job on the spot.”